Rare $1 Million Japanese Whisky Collection to Hit the Auction Block in Paris

Hanyu Ichiro’s Malt Full "Card" Series Japanese Whisky Collection — Hanyu Ichiro’s Malt Full “Card” Series Japanese Whisky Collection © Bonhams

One of the world’s rarest Japanese whisky collections, the Hanyu Ichiro Malt Full “Card” Series, is set for auction at Bonhams Cornette de Saint Cyr in Paris. This exclusive collection, featuring 54 bottles signed by renowned Japanese whisky-maker Ichiro Akuto, will be available in an online sale running from November 12 to 29, 2024, on Bonhams official website.

The collection is expected to fetch between €700,000 and €1,200,000 (approximately $750,000 to $1.28 million) due to its rarity and provenance. Each bottle in the series represents a card in a full deck and was drawn from a single cask, distilled at Hanyu between 1985 and 2000.

Founded by sake brewer Isouji Akuto, the Hanyu Distillery ceased production in 2000, but Ichiro Akuto, Isouji’s grandson, saved around 400 casks. He later selected premium whiskies from these casks to create the “Card” series between 2005 and 2014, preserving Hanyu’s legacy.

Bonhams has previously set records with similar auctions, including a 2015 sale at HK$3.8 million (around $485,000) and a 2020 sale at HK$11.9 million (around $1.52 million).

Amayès Aouli, Bonhams’ Global Head of Wine and Spirits, highlighted the significance of the upcoming sale, saying, “As a pioneer in spirits at auction, Bonhams holds multiple world records for the Hanyu Ichiro Malt Full “Card” set series. We are honored to offer this exceptionally rare collection once more. This is an incredible opportunity to acquire the most collectible of Japanese whiskies, with excellent provenance. For each bottle to be personally signed by the Master Distiller, Ichiro Akuto, makes this set truly unique.”

Clément Gaillard, Bonhams’ Spirits Specialist, added, “With only a finite number produced, it is one of the most sought-after whisky collections across the globe. To own this series is to own an extraordinary piece of whisky history.”

This auction presents a rare opportunity for collectors to own a distinguished piece of Japanese whisky heritage, with each bottle crafted and signed by a legendary distiller, adding unmatched authenticity and appeal to the set.

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